Congenital muscular torticollis, also called twisted neck or wryneck, is a condition in which an infant holds his or her head tilted to one side and has difficulty turning the head.

In congenital torticollis, the muscle that extends down the side of the neck - the sternocleidomastoid muscle -- is tight and shortened. For most babies, stretching exercises and simple changes in how the infant is held or positioned will gradually lengthen the muscle and correct the problem.

Description

Congenital muscular torticollis is present at birth or develops soon after. It is usually discovered in the first 6 to 8 weeks of life, when a newborn begins to gain more control over the head and neck.

Some babies with congenital torticollis also have developmental dysplasia of the hip, a condition in which the head of the thighbone is not held firmly in the hip socket.

Torticollis can also develop later in infancy and in childhood. This type of torticollis is referred to as "acquired" torticollis and may be associated with a variety of conditions that require specialized treatment. Acquired torticollis is not discussed in this article.

The cause of congenital muscular torticollis is unknown, however, it may be related to abnormal positioning (breech position, for example) or "crowding" of the baby while in the uterus. This results in an injury to the neck muscle that scars as it heals. The amount of scar in the muscle determines how tight the muscle is.

Having tighter space in the uterus is more common for first-born children, who are more likely to have torticollis, as well as hip dysplasia.

If you notice that your child holds his or her head tilted to one side, consult your pediatrician. He or she will discuss your child's general health, as well as ask specific questions about the torticollis symptoms.

Your doctor will perform a comprehensive physical examination and check for other conditions that can cause torticollis symptoms. Imaging tests, such as x-rays and ultrasound scans, may be taken of your child's neck and/or hips.

Nonsurgical Treatment

The standard treatment for congenital muscular torticollis consists of an exercise program to stretch the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Stretching exercises include turning the baby's neck side to side so that the chin touches each shoulder, and gently tilting the head to bring the ear on the unaffected side down to the shoulder.

These exercises must be done several times a day. Your doctor or a physical therapist will teach you how to perform the exercises.

There are other options that can help. Position toys where your baby has to turn his or her head to see them. Carry your child so that he or she looks away from the limited side. Position the crib so that your child must look away from the limited side to see you outside the crib.

Surgical Treatment

If nonsurgical options do not correct the torticollis, your doctor may suggest surgery.

Approximately 10% of children with congenital muscular torticollis require surgery. The operation is typically scheduled once the child reaches preschool years. The procedure will lengthen the short sternocleidomastoid muscle, and may be done as an outpatient surgery, meaning your child could go home the same day.

Reviewed by members of POSNA (Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America)

The Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) is a group of board eligible/board certified orthopaedic surgeons who have specialized training in the care of children's musculoskeletal health. One of our goals is to continue to be the authoritative source for patients and families on children's orthopaedic conditions. Our Public Education and Media Relations Committee works with the AAOS to develop, review, and update the pediatric topics within OrthoInfo, so we ensure that patients, families and other healthcare professionals have the latest information and practice guidelines at the click of a link.

AAOS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians referenced herein. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance should consult his or her orthopaedic surgeon, or locate one in your area through the AAOS "Find an Orthopaedist" program on this website.